Your MAC address (Media Access Control address) is a unique identifier assigned to your network hardware. In Windows 11, you may need it for router filtering, school or office networks, device tracking, or troubleshooting internet issues.

The good news? Windows 11 makes it easy to findβif you know where to look.
This guide covers every possible way to find your MAC address in Windows 11, explains why a single PC can have multiple MAC addresses, and answers common user questions.
What Is a MAC Address? (Quick Overview)
A MAC address is a 12-digit alphanumeric code (like 00-1A-2B-3C-4D-5E) assigned to:
- Wi-Fi adapter
- Ethernet (LAN) adapter
- Bluetooth adapter
- Virtual adapters (VPNs, Hyper-V, VirtualBox)
π Thatβs why one computer can have multiple MAC addresses.
Method 1: Find MAC Address Using Windows 11 Settings (Fastest Way)
This is the easiest method for most users.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I β Open Settings
- Click Network & Internet
- Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet
- Click Hardware properties
- Look for Physical address (MAC)
β This method works perfectly for active network connections.
Method 2: Find MAC Address Using Command Prompt
Best for advanced users or troubleshooting.
Steps:
- Press Windows + S, type
cmd - Open Command Prompt
- Type:
ipconfig /all - Scroll down to your network adapter
- Find Physical Address
This method shows all MAC addresses, including disabled and virtual adapters.
Method 3: Find MAC Address Using PowerShell
PowerShell gives a cleaner output.
Steps:
- Right-click Start β Select Windows Terminal
- Run:
getmac - View MAC addresses for all network interfaces
Perfect for identifying multiple MAC addresses on one computer.
Method 4: Find MAC Address in Control Panel (Old-School Method)
Still available in Windows 11.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
ncpa.cpl - Right-click your network β Status
- Click Details
- Find Physical Address
Why Does My Windows 11 PC Have Multiple MAC Addresses?
This is completely normal.
A single Windows 11 computer can have multiple MAC addresses because of:
- Wi-Fi adapter (wireless)
- Ethernet adapter (wired)
- Bluetooth
- Virtual machines
- VPN software
- MAC randomization (privacy feature)
Each network interface has its own unique MAC address.
What Is MAC Address Randomization in Windows 11?
Windows 11 uses MAC address randomization to protect privacy on public Wi-Fi.
- Enabled by default for Wi-Fi
- Changes MAC address periodically
- Can be disabled per network if required
This is why your MAC address may appear different on public networks.
When Do You Need a MAC Address?
You may need it for:
- Router MAC filtering
- School or office network registration
- Device whitelisting
- Network troubleshooting
- ISP authentication
If youβre working with older systems, you may also find this guide useful:
π https://multicaretechnical.com/windows-7-minimum-requirements-complete-guide-for-old-new-pcs
MAC Address vs IP Address (Quick Comparison)
| Feature | MAC Address | IP Address |
|---|---|---|
| Assigned by | Hardware manufacturer | Network/ISP |
| Changes | Rarely | Frequently |
| Used for | Device identification | Network communication |
| Format | 12-digit hex | Numeric |
Related Windows Guides You May Need
- Reset legacy systems:
π https://multicaretechnical.com/how-to-reset-a-windows-7-password-without-logging-in - Change system language (Windows 11/10/7):
π https://multicaretechnical.com/how-to-change-language-in-windows-11-10-and-7-complete-guide
Quick FAQs (Optimized for Featured Snippets)
How do I find MAC address in Windows 11?
Open Settings β Network & Internet β Hardware properties to view the MAC address.
Can a computer have multiple MAC addresses?
Yes, each network adapter (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, virtual) has its own MAC address.
Does MAC address change in Windows 11?
Normally no, but MAC randomization can change it on Wi-Fi networks.
Conclusion
Finding the MAC address in Windows 11 is simple once you know the right method. Whether you use Settings, Command Prompt, or PowerShell, Windows 11 gives you full visibility into all network adapters. Just rememberβmultiple MAC addresses on one PC are normal, not a problem.